Attractions and Places To See in Atlantic County - Top 7

Atlantic County offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit the Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area, a protected reserve with undeveloped beach and wetlands, ideal for birdwatching. Another excellent spot for wildlife observation is the Absecon Wildlife Management Area, featuring lowland forests and salt marshes. For a unique experience, walk the Tom's Pond Trail Boardwalk, which traverses a cedar swamp where carnivorous plants can be found. The region is also part of the vast Pinelands National Reserve, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its unique ecology.

Yes, Atlantic County is rich in history and culture. You can see the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church, a slice of old Atlantic City just off the Boardwalk. Beyond our highlights, explore the iconic Absecon Lighthouse, the third tallest in the U.S., or the whimsical Lucy the Elephant in Margate City, a National Historic Landmark. The Atlantic City Boardwalk itself is a historic stretch, and you can delve into the past at Somers Mansion, the oldest house in Atlantic County, or the ruins of Weymouth Furnace and Estellville Glassworks.

Many attractions in Atlantic County are suitable for families. The Atlantic City Beach and Margate City Beach are perfect for swimming, surfing, and relaxing. Kids will enjoy the unique experience of walking the Tom's Pond Trail Boardwalk through a cedar swamp. Beyond our listed highlights, consider visiting the Atlantic City Aquarium at Historic Gardners Basin, or the Steel Pier Amusement Park for rides and entertainment. Historic Smithville also offers an interactive experience with cobblestone streets and a carousel.

Atlantic County offers various hiking opportunities. You can find trails within the Absecon Wildlife Management Area, which features diverse habitats for wildlife. The Tom's Pond Trail Boardwalk provides an easy and unique walk through a cedar swamp. For more options, explore the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, which has an eight-mile driving loop and various hiking trails. You can discover more routes and details on the Hiking in Atlantic County guide, including easy loops like the 'Hiking loop from Atlantic City'.

Yes, Atlantic County has several cycling routes. You can find easy road cycling loops like 'Brigantine Island loop — Atlantic City' or 'Atlantic Avenue loop — Atlantic City' which are close to coastal attractions. For more options, check out the Road Cycling Routes in Atlantic County guide or the Cycling in Atlantic County guide, which includes routes like 'The Point 2 Beach loop from Ventnor City'.

Atlantic County is excellent for birdwatching. The Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area and Absecon Wildlife Management Area are prime locations, offering habitats for threatened and endangered birds and migratory shorebirds. The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is also a vast federal tract known for birdwatching, including bald eagles, waterfowl, and snow geese, especially in late September.

Absolutely. The Atlantic City Beach is a popular spot for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, or simply relaxing. Similarly, Margate City Beach offers a golden stretch of sand ideal for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, with lifeguards on duty. Both beaches are easily accessible and offer a great coastal experience.

Yes, a significant portion of Atlantic County lies within the Pinelands National Reserve, known for its unique ecology, pine trees, and scrub oak. You can experience this unique environment at the Mechescatauxin Creek Bridge, which offers a serene escape into the heart of the Pine Barrens, allowing you to admire this peaceful tributary to the Mullica River.

Atlantic County offers dedicated trails for local beverages. You can explore the Atlantic County Winery Trail, which includes the Renault Winery, a short drive from Egg Harbor City, offering wine tours, tastings, and gourmet dining. There's also the Atlantic County Brewery Trail for craft beer enthusiasts, allowing you to discover local world-class breweries.

The best time for outdoor activities largely depends on your preference. Late spring through early fall offers pleasant weather for beaches and water sports. Birdwatching is particularly good in late September at places like the Absecon Wildlife Management Area. For hiking and cycling, spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter activities outdoors are also possible, though less common for general tourism.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is known for its accessibility, offering a long, flat surface perfect for strolling and enjoying the ocean air. Many attractions along the boardwalk are also designed to be accessible. While specific accessibility details for all natural trails vary, the Tom's Pond Trail Boardwalk provides a comfortable wooden path through a wetland, which may offer a more accessible nature experience than unpaved trails.